Basements often provide valuable living space, whether you use them as an extra bedroom, office, or family room. However, safety and accessibility should be top priorities when finishing a basement. One of the best ways to add both is by installing an egress door. A basement egress door ensures code compliance and offers a convenient exit in case of emergencies. Please keep reading to learn more about the advantages of an egress door and what to expect for the installation process.
What, Exactly, Is An Egress Door In A Basement?
An egress door is a code-compliant exit designed to allow occupants to safely leave a basement in case of an emergency, such as a fire. Unlike a traditional basement door or small window, an egress door meets specific size and functionality requirements for accessibility and safety.
Why Would You Want A Basement Egress Door?
Installing a basement egress door offers many benefits, including:
Safety
A standard basement window might not provide a fast or practical escape in an emergency, such as a fire or flooding. An egress door gives you and your family a full-size exit route that’s easy to access, even for children, elderly family members, or first responders who may need to enter.
Code Compliance
Building codes in Ohio require proper egress openings in finished basements, especially if you add a bedroom. An egress door ensures your project passes inspections, protects your family, and avoids costly fines or remodeling setbacks.
Natural Light and Ventilation
Basements are often dark and stuffy. Adding an egress door with a window lets in daylight, brightening the space and making it feel like part of the home rather than a separate, closed-off level.
Convenience
Beyond safety, an egress door provides everyday usability. It makes certain tasks, such as moving furniture into your basement, carrying tools in and out, or simply stepping into the backyard without going upstairs, much easier..
Property Value
Homes with code-compliant basements are far more appealing to buyers. An egress door shows that your basement is a safe, livable space that can legally be used as a bedroom or living area, boosting both resale value and marketability.
Walkout Basement vs Egress
You may be wondering what the difference is between an egress door in the basement versus, say, a sliding door that might be found in a walkout basement. Good question! The can overlap, but there are a few key differences:
Basement Egress Door
- Primary Purpose: Safety. Egress doors (and windows) are required by building codes to provide a safe escape route in case of fire or emergency.
- Location: Usually installed in basements that don’t already have direct outdoor access.
- Size & Code: Must meet strict size, clearance, and accessibility codes (minimum opening dimensions, step requirements, etc.).
- Appearance: Typically a single swing door at the bottom of a stairwell or egress well. It’s utilitarian and primarily about function, not aesthetics (although they also let in light and can look nice in their own right).
Sliding Glass Doors in Walkout Basements
- Primary Purpose: Convenience and lifestyle. Sliding doors in a walkout basement function just like any patio door, letting in light and providing easy backyard access.
- Location: Only possible in basements that are built at or partially above ground level on one side (a walkout lot).
- Code: They may qualify as egress if they meet size requirements, but they’re not primarily installed for emergency exit, but for day-to-day use.
- Appearance: Large glass panels that slide open, often connecting to a patio or deck. Designed to bring in natural light and outdoor views.
Which Way Does A Basement Egress Door Open?
For safety, most basement egress doors are designed to open outward. This prevents debris or pressure from blocking the door during emergencies. Outward-swinging doors also save interior space in your finished basement.
Can You Have More Than One Basement Egress Door?
If the basement is a bedroom, building codes in Ohio require at least one emergency exit per basement bedroom. Many homeowners choose to install multiple basement egress doors for convenience and improved access. This can be especially useful in larger basements or when adding multiple living areas.
Do You Need Both Egress Windows And An Egress Door?
Ohio building codes require at least one emergency escape and rescue opening per bedroom. This can be either an egress window or an egress door. However, having both can enhance safety, increase natural light, and add resale appeal.
What Is The Process Of Installing A Basement Egress Door?
Installing a basement egress door is a specialized process involving excavation and structural work, so it is best left to the professionals. In general, the process will look something like this:
- Planning stage by reviewing the local codes and building regulations.
- After the project is approved, excavation begins by digging the outside basement wall where the door will go.
- After excavation, the foundation concrete wall is cut.
- The framing and waterproof sealing are installed.
- Next, the egress door is fitted and installed. Part of the installation ensures that it swings open freely without hitting anything.
- Lastly, adding steps, a landing, or a walkout area so you can exit easily in an emergency.
The excavation and concrete framing process involved in installing an egress door are shown here.
Basement Finishing Columbus, OH
If you’re planning a full basement remodel or want to add a basement egress door for safety, comfort, and code compliance, US Basement Repair can help. Our team specializes in basement finishing in Columbus, OH, and we’ll ensure your egress door installation is as seamless as possible. Contact us today for a free estimate.
